Lafreniere off to historically bad start

To say it has been a disappointing start to his NHL career for Alexis Lafreniere would be a major understatement. In fact, it's been the worst start to a career for a first-overall pick we have seen in quite some time.

Many expected the 19-year-old – who was taken with the number one pick at the 2020 NHL Entry Draft by the New York Rangers – to not only contend for the Calder Trophy, but play a big role in his team becoming a force this season. Unfortunately, that has not been the case at all, as he has struggled in big way, posting just one goal in 15 games thus far.

It appears the pressure is beginning to mount on Lafreniere, who has to have very little confidence at this point. TSN's Frank Seravalli certainly didn't help when he put out an article Friday showing just how bad his season has been. It turns out that this is the worst start to a rookie year by a first-overall pick since well known bust Patrik Stefan during the 1999-2000 season. To make matters even worse, it hasn't even been as good as Stefan's, as he managed seven points through his first 15. A more recent bust in Nail Yakupov managed to put up nine points through the same amount of games.

Still, as frustrating as it has been early on, it is far too soon to be writing Lafreniere off or labelling him as a 'bust', which it seems some already are. He proved through his illustrious junior career in the QMJHL, as well as his 2020 World Juniors performance, just how good he can be. Though it is a slow start, it is important to remember that he is still very young. The skill level is there, and it wouldn't be a surprise to see him figure things out sooner than later.

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